Banana Cinnamon Rolls
A delightful treat with soft, tender dough infused with ripe bananas and warm spices, perfect for breakfast or as an afternoon snack.
Ingredients
Dough Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour to create a tender, fluffy dough.
- ⅓ cup packed light brown sugar provides a rich sweetness.
- 2¼ teaspoons Rapid Rise yeast ensures a quick rise for your rolls.
- 1½ teaspoons ground cinnamon infuses warmth and aroma.
- 1 teaspoon salt enhances the flavors.
- 1 cup milk adds moisture and richness.
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter ensures a soft texture.
- ⅔ cup mashed overripe banana layers in natural sweetness.
Filling Ingredients
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, at room temperature for spreading on the filling.
- ½ cup packed light brown sugar to sweeten the filling.
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon for extra spice kick.
- 1 pinch salt for balance.
Frosting Ingredients
- ⅓ cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 2 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature adds creaminess.
- 2 cups powdered sugar sweetens the frosting.
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon to complement the cream cheese.
- 1 tablespoon milk to adjust consistency.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract enhances flavor.
- 1 pinch salt rounds off sweetness.
Instructions
Dough Preparation
- In a large bowl, combine 2 cups of the flour, brown sugar, Rapid Rise yeast, ground cinnamon, and salt.
- Warm the milk and butter in the microwave for about 30 seconds until the butter is mostly melted and the mixture is warm.
- Pour the milk mixture into the flour blend along with the mashed banana.
- Beat the mixture on low speed, then increase to high for about 2 minutes, gradually adding the remaining flour until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for approximately 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
Filling Preparation
- In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt for the filling.
Rolls Assembly
- Once the dough has risen, roll it out into an 18×12-inch rectangle.
- Spread the softened butter over the surface of the dough, then sprinkle the sugar-cinnamon mixture over it.
- Roll the dough tightly from the long edge and slice into 12 even pieces.
- Arrange the rolls in a lined 9×13-inch pan and allow to rise for about an hour.
Baking
- Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- Bake the rolls for approximately 30 minutes, or until golden brown.
Frosting
- In a stand mixer, combine room-temperature butter, cream cheese, powdered sugar, ground cinnamon, milk, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt.
- Beat together until light and fluffy, then spread over the cooled banana cinnamon rolls.
Notes
Can be served warm or at room temperature, and pairs well with coffee or as a dessert. Variations can include adding nuts or using whole wheat flour.